Manchester United reportedly secure €85 million signing after disappointing Premier League season for strikers

Manchester United is on the verge of securing the signing of Benjamin Sesko, one of the most promising young strikers in European soccer. With new manager Rúben Amorim pushing for a fresh and dynamic attacking force, the Red Devils have reportedly reached an agreement with RB Leipzig for €76.5 million, plus €8.5 million in add-ons, bringing the total deal to €85 million.

The Slovenian forward is expected to sign a contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until June 2030, according Fabrizio Romano, marking a clear commitment to rejuvenating and strengthening the team’s frontline.

Sesko, 22, stands at 6’5″ and is known for his physical strength, aerial dominance, and sharp finishing. He scored 21 goals last season for Leipzig, earning attention from Europe’s elite clubs.

Manchester United ultimately convinced him with a long-term project and a prominent role in Amorim’s new-look squad. The signing is part of a broader strategy to rebuild the team’s attack, which has struggled for consistency and firepower in recent years.

More summer signings for Amorim’s project

In addition to Sesko, United has added three more key players this summer. Bryan Mbeumo, a 26-year-old Cameroonian international winger, joined from Brentford for €75 million, bringing speed and width to the flanks. Matheus Cunha, a 26-year-old Brazilian playmaker, arrived from Wolves in a €74.2 million deal to provide creativity behind the strikers.

Lastly, United signed Diego León, an 18-year-old left-back from Cerro Porteño, for €4 million, as a long-term prospect. In total, United has spent over €230 million this transfer window.

Trying to break the striker curse

Sesko’s arrival aims to end United’s long-standing striker woes, which have persisted since the departures of legends like Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. Multiple big-name signings—from Romelu Lukaku to Rasmus Højlund—have failed to live up to expectations. United now sees Sesko as both a goal-scoring hope and a cornerstone for Amorim’s long-term vision.

Meanwhile, Højlund, signed in 2023 with high hopes, has struggled to make a consistent impact and may lose his place in the squad. Marcus Rashford has been loaned to Barcelona until June 30, 2026, with a purchase option, while Alejandro Garnacho has been removed from training and placed on the so-called “bomb squad.” United is reportedly open to selling Garnacho for around £30 million, with interest from Chelsea and Napoli.